Armed men on Thursday night attacked the students’ quarters of Bilyaminu Usman Polytechnic (BUPOLY), Hadejia, located along Malam Madori Road in Jigawa State.
The assailants stormed the hostel around midnight, injuring two students and carting away several mobile phones. They also attempted to abduct some students but were forced to flee when the victims raised alarm.
An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said:
“It was around midnight when the attackers came. They caused chaos, injured some students, and took away many phones.”
Another resident, Tukur Danlami, added that neighbours from nearby communities rushed to the scene after hearing the students’ loud cries, which forced the attackers to retreat.
Recounting the ordeal, a student, Manniru Magaji, said:
“We heard loud noises and saw people running away with phones in their hands. We were very scared.”
Another student, Yunusa Yaro, confirmed:
“They entered our dormitory with weapons, attacked us, and stole several phones. Thankfully, we escaped unharmed.”
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Jigawa, SP Shi’isu Adam, said the attack targeted an off-campus male hostel rented by students. He described the location as “quite isolated,” making it vulnerable.
“Two students were seriously injured during the attack. They were taken to Hadejia General Hospital and have since been discharged,” he stated.
Adam assured that investigations were ongoing to track down the culprits, adding that security had been reinforced around the institution to prevent further incidents.
Attempts to reach the management of Bilyaminu Usman Polytechnic for comment were unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, a community youth leader, Garba Ibrahim, expressed concern, saying the attack had heightened fear among residents.
“The people here are terrified. Such attacks disrupt peace and threaten the safety of our youth. We call on the government and security agencies to take urgent steps to protect students and residents,” he said, while appealing for increased patrols and stronger security measures around the school.
Despite the fear among students, authorities have assured that steps are being taken to restore calm and strengthen protection in the area.
ADEOLA KUNLE
